The Aftermath of a Truck Accident – What Steps Should I Take?

By
Goodman Acker
|February 11, 2019

As with any situation, when negligence exists and causes individuals significant harm, it can be a daunting and complicated experience. Unfortunately, when these accidents involve large commercial trucks, the results can be catastrophic and leave those harmed with plenty of questions.

Following the truck accident, there are some important steps that individuals should take. We understand that it’s not always possible as some truck accidents can result in catastrophic injuries; however, when possible, these steps can help individuals build a case in a strong and effective manner.

Understanding the Battle Against the Insurance Companies

One important thing to note following a truck accident is how the aftermath is impacted by the involvement of insurance companies. These are large corporations tasked with protecting their own profit and policyholders—which includes the truck driver, the trucking company, the tractor, the trailer, and more.

When you’re injured, your claim will be against the insurance company who covers the party responsible for the accident. They’ll also be looking for ways to limit their own liability and how much they actually have to pay in their settlement.

Because of this, it’s critical for you to have the right evidence after a truck accident. This can include a number of different things, including statements by the truck driver, an idea of whether or not they were properly logging hours, and how they may have been negligent.

Taking Photos of the Accident and Your Damages

Following the crash, you want to get as many photos as you can if you are physically able to do so. You may request others to help if they are able and willing. As for what images to take, there are multiple factors that can play a role in helping you build a strong case.

Take photos of the following:

The scene where the accident occurred and any signs of problems—such as tire marks from braking, missing traffic signs or signals, and any road dangers

The damage to your vehicle and where the damage is located on the truck—these can often help accident reconstructionists understands angles at which the incident occurred

The visible injuries you sustained—this can include lacerations, serious bruising, any open wounds, broken bones, and more

Getting the Medical Help You Need Quickly

Make certain to get medical help as quickly as possible. Medical treatment is necessary following a truck accident because of the amount of damage that can be caused. These types of accidents can leave those impacted with brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and more. Medical attention allows you to start immediately with the necessary procedures.

When you get medical attention, you’re also helping your own case against the negligent party as it could build a strong case with medical records. These medical records can detail the exact injuries you sustained and give an idea of whether or not the truck accident caused the injuries.

Having a Lawyer On Your Side—Give Yourself a Chance at Success

Legal matters are difficult to endure. There are so many factors involved that trying to navigate it alone can be damaging to your rights. Instead, it’s important to speak with a professional legal advocate who can gather the details necessary, put together a strong case, and help you pursue the justice you deserve.

With a lawyer on your side, you can have access to various resources that you may not have on your own. This can include an accident reconstructionist, medical expert, witnesses to the accidents, and other individuals with specialized knowledge of the trucking industry and how negligence can cause harm.

At Goodman Acker, we take these cases seriously because we know the long-lasting impact it can have on anyone involved. As such, we make it a point to put the needs and best interests of our clients first because they need it the most.

Our truck accident attorneys in Detroit are ready stand by your side every step of the way. Our goal is to help you move forward in the aftermath of a truck accident in the most effective manner possible. Even more, we want to help you obtain justice and the compensation you deserve.

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